Uploaded by Shige Higashi on December 31, 2025 at 1:20PM
The Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Southern California (JCCSC) marked a significant milestone—its 120th anniversary—on Sunday, October 5, 2025, at Almansor Court in Alhambra. The event brought together around 200 guests, including community representatives, to honor the chamber’s enduring legacy and ongoing contributions to both the Japanese American community and U.S.-Japan relations.
The celebration featured a vibrant program, beginning with opening remarks from JCCSC President Haruo Takehana and congratulatory messages from Deputy Consul General Naoko Kamitani in Los Angeles and other dignitaries. A special video presentation highlighted the chamber’s rich history, tracing its roots back to its founding in 1905 as the “Los Angeles Los Angels Association.” The JCCSC has played a pivotal role in supporting Japanese immigrants, especially during challenging times, and has continued to promote education, cultural heritage, and community welfare throughout its history.
A highlight of the event was the awards ceremony. The Kansha Awards recognized the outstanding contributions of Beikoku Shodo Kenkyukai, Japanese Women’s Society of Southern California, Matsutoyokai, Nanka Kenjinkai Kyogikai, Otafuku Foods, Popla International, Inc., and the Southern California Gardener’s Federation. The Platinum Award was presented to Mutual Trading Co., Inc., acknowledging their exceptional service to the community. Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi also honored the JCCSC and all awardess with a certificate, recognizing their positive impact on American society.
Entertainment for the event was provided by the Japan America Chamber Orchestra, led by Ark Sano, adding a cultural flourish to the festivities.
JCCSC President Takehana’s commemorative message delivered at the event reflected on the chamber’s 120-year journey. It recounted the early days of Japanese immigration to the U.S. West Coast after the Meiji Restoration, the formation of the first Japanese organization in Los Angeles in 1897, and the challenges faced until the successful re-establishment of the chamber in 1905 when the Japanese immigrants population in Southern California had grown to approximately 10,000. The JCCSC’s mission has always been to protect Japanese immigrants from discrimination and support their livelihoods, making it the oldest Japanese community organization in the region.
After World War II, the organization was re-established and renamed, entering a new era under President Mitsuhiko Shimizu. Today, under the leadership of President Takehana, the chamber continues to celebrate the diversity of the Japanese American community and emphasizes the importance of sustaining its heritage and culture for future generations. The message encouraged pride and commitment to keeping Japanese identity alive in Southern California.
The 120th Anniversary Celebration not only honored the JCCSC’s storied past but also reaffirmed its dedication to fostering community, cultural heritage, and strong U.S.-Japan relations for years to come.